Effects of Mouse Sensitivity: Performance and Injury Prevention

This document explores the multifaceted impact of mouse sensitivity on performance and injury prevention in esports, particularly within First Person Shooter (FPS) and Third Person Shooter (TPS) games. The central thesis is that optimal mouse sensitivity is highly individualized, influenced by equipment, ergonomics, and players' unique motor preferences and physical conditioning, and plays a critical role in both competitive performance and musculoskeletal health. The analysis highlights a significant gap in scientific literature regarding mouse sensitivity in esports, contrasting it with existing research on computer mouse use in office settings.

Key findings indicate that mouse sensitivity directly affects the mechanical load on upper limb muscles, tendons, and joints. Factors such as mouse weight, grip style, posture, and game-specific mechanics (e.g., character or weapon choice) interact with sensitivity settings to influence movement accuracy, muscular fatigue, and sensory motor control. For instance, studies show that excessively heavy or light mice can lead to exaggerated movement patterns or decreased accuracy, respectively, with an optimal weight range identified between 100g and 160g to minimize neural processing and muscular cost. High sensitivity with small targets can diminish accuracy, especially in older users, suggesting lower sensitivity may improve precision by preventing overshooting.

The document emphasizes that prolonged static contractions and repetitive movements, common in esports with average daily playtimes of 5.28 hours, contribute to musculoskeletal disorders. Stiffening upper body muscles for accuracy can negatively impact posture, which in turn affects mouse sensitivity and motor control. The authors conclude that a universal optimal sensitivity does not exist; instead, personalized physical training and ergonomic setups are essential to manage mechanical strain, prevent injuries, and sustain players' careers. The scope of the document is global, focusing on esports players and drawing on existing research in ergonomics and physiology. The methodology primarily involves a literature review and synthesis of existing studies, without presenting new empirical data.